ETNOBOTÂNICA SOBRE AMBIENTES DE RESTINGA E MANGUEZAL EM GALINHOS, RIO GRANDE DO NORTE.

Abstract

Restingas and Mangroves are culturally and ecologically significant ecosystems, harboring unique species and providing socio-environmental resources and services for local riverine and coastal communities. However, these areas are threatened by unplanned urbanization and pollution. In order to comprehend and appreciate the traditional knowledge of artisanal fishermen regarding the utilization and conservation of these ecosystems, ethnobotanical studies were conducted in Galinhos-RN. Research involving 23 artisanal fishermen revealed an average age of 50 years, with approximately 40 years of residency in Galinhos. The majority were married and had low levels of education. Fishing constituted their primary source of income, with earnings up to a minimum wage. The fishermen possessed limited knowledge about the term "restinga," but were acquainted with the term "mangrove." They highlighted tourist developments as factors contributing to dune degradation, with fewer mentions of waste-related issues. Salt pans and shrimp farming were identified as threats to the mangroves, emphasizing the significance of this ecosystem for local tourism. Regarding plant life, the fishermen mentioned 16 species from the sand dunes and their uses, with most being invasive species. Concerning mangroves, they identified four species, underscored their uses, as well as the importance of tourism, and stressed the necessity of conserving these ecosystems.